This is an advanced course in environmental science for students majoring in the life or related sciences who are considering careers in the public sector as managers or stewards of the public land and resources. The course utilizes a case study approach to engage students in discussion of appropriate techniques to manage and utilize the public resources of the U.S. Successful and unsuccessful management plans implemented in the U.S.'s national, state, and local parks are reviewed. Timber management of the national forests is discussed. Riparian and river management techniques within the nation's parks and game lands are reviewed. Mineral rights and oil and gas exploration within public land is examined, along with other mineral exploration and exploitation policies and agricultural practices within public lands. Management of deer, bear and other game species is discussed. Other topics include: opportunity cost analysis for evaluation policy options, techniques to identify sources of inefficiency in management of specific resources. This is a communication intensive course to fulfill students' communication skills VI-IX requirement.
Prerequisites: ENVS2500 and COSK2220
3 Credits